Gold retreats as risk appetite returns

The market players who were bracing for North Korea to conduct another missile launch over the weekend to mark their foundation day, were relieved when Pyongyang decided to host a celebration instead. This reprieve has rekindled appetite for riskier assets and supported the greenback while punishing safe havens such as gold. While the yellow metal may continue to edge lower amid the risk-on trading environment, the lingering air of caution is likely to limit downside losses.

The dollar is still vulnerable to further losses, as expectations rapidly fade over the Federal Reserve raising U.S. interest rates in December, so gold is likely to remain supported moving forward. Further upside is still on the cards, especially when considering how heightened political uncertainty in Washington, geopolitical tensions and Brexit concerns continue to stimulate the flight to safety.

From a technical standpoint, gold bulls are still in the game, despite the nasty drop from over the weekend. A breakout above $1,340 should encourage a further appreciation higher towards $1,350. In an alternative scenario, a breakdown and repeated weakness under $1,325 is likely to encourage a decline towards $1,315 and $1,300, respectively.